The FA Cup commences for the 2024/25 as Kings Langley will be looking to write some new history, dating back to 1886 when they were founded. They travel to Cockfosters who will be looking to send Kings back home disappointed.

After a highly encouraging display in Kings’ last preseason fixture, narrowly losing 2-3 against a full strength National League Wealdstone, the visitors will not be short of confidence. A particular threat for Kings Langley is their duel success rate, and their ability to move the ball quickly. In particular, the ability to utilise the pace on the right hand side with Lorenzo Johnson proving a nightmare for full backs. He will look to replicate his performance against the hosts. Another player who has been consistent throughout preseason is Liam Greville, who has performed incredibly well. His ability to retain possession and control the tempo of the game are major strengths to this Kings Langley side.

Standing in their way is a Cockfosters side who compete in the Spartan South Midlands Premier Division. They finished in 10th last campaign, and were close to finishing in the playoffs. Having already started their new season, Cockfosters have played two fixtures - winning one and losing one to Kempston Rovers, who were relegated from Kings Langley’s division last season. Their player to look out for is Antonio Michael, who has two goals in the two games they have played. Kings will be looking to deal with the potential threat both himself and others could bring.

This game is the first taste of competitive action for Kings in the 2024/25 season, and one which could prove vital for the club. The FA Cup brings fantastic rewards to non-league clubs, with lasting memories being created and unbelievable scripts being written. Kings cannot afford to become complacent playing a division higher, otherwise they could receive a shock.

Winning on the road can be what separates a team from finishing higher up the table, with teams in the division looking to use their home advantage. Kings will be looking to improve upon just 5 away wins from 18 played in the league, as this game can help with boosting the confidence of the team, which is important with crafting and early spell of good form in the league. Kings will be looking to make a statement to the rest of the division, and this game could be the perfect opportunity to start this run.